Mary Frances Brown Stratton

Proverbs 31:28-29 says, “Her children rise up and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many daughters have done well, But you excel them all.” It is because of one amazing woman that many generations will come and continue to offer her heartfelt praises. 

On July 29, 1933, God gifted Peter C. and Eva Beatrice Brown (both deceased) and this world, Mary Frances. She grew up in the countryside of Nelson County, VA with her ten siblings: Pete Jr., Charles, Percy, John, Frank, Joe, Caroline, Edith, Helen, and Eva (Nanny) (all deceased).

On April 29, 2023 our beloved mother, grandmother, great grandmother, aunt, cousin, sister in-law and friend, Mary Frances, quietly slipped away to receive her wings and went to walk with the angels. Our Lord has eternally granted her sweet rest from her labor here on earth.

Mary Frances had a long and beautiful life of 89 years. She married her devoted late husband of 52 years, Robert William Stratton on November 6, 1954. After their wedding and Robert’s enlistment in the United States Army, they moved to North Carolina, Georgia, and finally settled in Shipman, VA to raise their family of six children. She leaves to cherish her memories, two daughters: Diane Qualls and Olivia Baker (Robert); four sons: Robert Stratton (Catherine), William Stratton (Debbie), Vernon Stratton (Rhonda), Eric Stratton (Erica); seventeen grandchildren: Cammillia Campbell, Allen Stratton (Pace), Alfreda Campbell, Danny  Stratton (Nicole), TreMayne Martin (Jade), Octavia Stratton, Derrell Qualls (Jessica), Justan Stratton, Jonathan Stratton, Jaiden Stratton, Erica Stratton, Eriauna Stratton, Tyrin Turner, Khya Turner, Shaquan Atkinson, Shanaz Daniels and Myeia Washington; eight great grandchildren: Amiah Ayres, Natalie Spencer, Hannah Stratton, McKayla Stratton, McKenzie Stratton, Kevin Turner, Lillie and Hazel Headley; a special niece Shirley Elcox, two sister-in-law’s Julia Brown and Susie Vaughn, a special friend Madeline Atkinson; and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Mary Frances graduated from Nelson County High School. When she wasn’t caring for her family, she worked at Shoney’s Restaurant in Charlottesville, VA for 17 years as a cook. Her children still talk about the strawberry pies and the big boy burgers she would bring home to them as a treat. She was revered as the matriarch and strength of the family. She was also considered the family's traveling nurse and caretaker. Whenever someone was recovering from an illness or surgery, she didn’t hesitate to go and provide care, clean, and cook amazing meals.

Mary Frances accepted Christ at an early age and she loved the Lord. She was a member of Montreal Baptist Church in Shipman, VA.  She served faithfully and her life was a light unto the world as she shared kindness and love to all she knew. Mary Frances worshiped God in the church choir and served as an usher until her health began to fail.

During the final days of her journey, Mary Frances continued to put her family first by encouraging each of them to take care of one another by sticking together and continuing to do good things. Mary Frances leaves a legacy of Christ, love, strength, and devotion. To honor her, the family will continue to carry her torch and be forever grateful for the life lessons she gave. To our God, be the Glory forever and ever!

A funeral service will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 6, 2023 at Calvary Baptist Church, 8408 Thomas Nelson Highway, Lovingston, VA 22949 with Rev. James Rose officiating.

Live Streaming: www.youtube.com@calvaryinlov-calvary-baptis509/streams

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Interment will follow in the Stratton Family Cemetery in Shipman.

A public viewing will be held at the church one hour before the time of service.

Arrangements are under the direction of Wells/Sheffield Funeral Chapel, Lovingston, VA (434-263-4097).

**Mask Required**